'Unacceptable Levels' to screen at the Michigan Theater on Wednesday

The documentary "Unacceptable Levels" will have a special screening at the Michigan Theater (603 E. Liberty St.) on Wednesday, October 16th at 7 p.m. The movie will be followed by a panel discussion.

"Unacceptable Levels" considers the fallout from the chemical revolution of the 1940s, as viewed through the eyes of affable filmmaker Ed Brown – a father trying to understand the world in which he and his wife are raising their children.

To create this debut documentary, Brown traveled to interview experts in science, advocacy, and law.

According to a synopsis of the film, "Weaving these testimonies into a compelling narrative, Brown presents us with the story of how the chemical revolution brought us to where we are, and of where, if we’re not vigilant, it may take us. Over 80,000 chemicals flow through our system of commerce, and many are going straight into our bodies. Even our unborn children are affected. Due to this constant exposure, we have approximately 200 synthetic industrial chemicals interacting with our cells every single day.

"Until recently, modern science really didn't understand what that could mean for all of us in the long run, but that is changing. Globally, disease rates are on the rise. Theories about the causes abound, yet the issues are complex and often muddied by the maneuvering of political and corporate interests. To explore different facets of common chemical exposure, 'Unacceptable Levels,' was made in consultation with experts in multiple fields and is guided by a father on a personal journey as he attempts to bring these issues to light for everyone. Its primary goal? To determine whether we can prevent disease before it strikes us. 'Unacceptable Levels' opens the door to conversations about the chemical burden our bodies carry so that we can make informed decisions now and in the future. The film poses challenges to our companies, our government, and our society to do something about a nearly-unseen threat with the inspired knowledge that small changes can generate a massive impact."

Admission costs $11, and you can reserve tickets in advance by visiting http://www.tugg.com/events/5451.

Jenn McKee is an entertainment reporter for The Ann Arbor News. Reach her at jennmckee@mlive.com or 734-623-2546, and follow her on Twitter @jennmckee.